Dear Beaver College and Arcadia University Community,

Hundreds of Arcadia students walked across the stage this May in formal recognition of their earned degrees at the University’s 167th Commencement. Both undergraduate and graduate students alike celebrated this milestone with smiles, cheers, and tears of joy. They became Arcadia alumni with automatic admission into the Alumni Association. 

Over the past few months my own nostalgic reflections have taken me back to my own undergraduate ceremony on what would later become Haber Green, and all the accompanying pride and excitement that filled my soul. I remember being worried that I’d miss my friends, lose my connection to this special place, and never experience the feeling of being part of this campus community. Then I discovered the Alumni Association, and my Arcadia experience began anew. 

In fact, for many like me, Commencement marked a new phase of my lifelong journey with my beloved alma mater. The Alumni Association exists for exactly that purpose – to engage Arcadians throughout their lives by offering rewarding opportunities to participate in the Arcadia experience in a variety of formal and informal ways. Even better, we can support and enhance the experience of the next generation of Arcadia students in the process. 

I find myself thinking of major life transitions like Commencement because my three year term as President of Arcadia University’s Alumni Association is coming to an end. Thank you to my fellow Board members these past few years for your dedication and friendship. Also, I am grateful for the leadership and staff in the Division of University Advancement for their tireless efforts at engaging alumni and supporting students. 

Soon I will pass the leadership baton to a trusted alumna and friend, Stacey Downey ’88. She will lead the Alumni Association into its next chapter, focused on connecting alumni to one another and the campus, while supporting the University’s students.  Be assured that my Arcadia experience is not over as my presidential term ends. I will continue to remain active in the Alumni Association, and will continue to see you on campus. 

My final words here as Alumni Association President should and must be about Arcadia’s students. When we were students we benefited from the time, talent, and treasure of the Beaver and Arcadia alumni who came before us. It is my belief that we owe that same commitment to the current and future students. I hope you will consider supporting our students by attending events, volunteering your time such as mentoring a student in your professional field, and making a financial gift. 

Together, let’s keep the Scarlet and Grey flying high!

With gratitude,

Maya Basu Johnson ’97

President, Arcadia University Alumni Association